Spin-orbit torque as a method for field-free detection of in-plane magnetization switching

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel method using spin-orbit torque to detect in-plane magnetization switching without external magnetic fields, enabling rapid characterization and domain detection in magnetic bilayers.

Contribution

The authors demonstrate a simple, field-free SOT-based detection technique for in-plane magnetization switching applicable to various magnetic configurations.

Findings

Effective detection of Mx and My components without external fields.

Applicable to fast characterization of SOT switching.

Potential for electrical detection in race-track memory.

Abstract

We proposed and demonstrated a simple method for detection of in-plane magnetization switching by spin-orbit torque (SOT) in bilayers of non-magnetic / magnetic materials. In our method, SOT is used not only for magnetization switching but also for detection. Our method can detect arbitrary Mx and My component without an external magnetic field, which is useful for fast characterization of type-X, type-Y, and type-XY SOT magnetization switching. Our SOT detection scheme can be utilized not only for fast characterization of SOT switching in bilayers, but also for electrical detection of in-plane magnetic domains in race-track memory.